When it comes to BBQ and grilling, there's always room for a new and exciting recipe. Today, we're going to explore a mouth - watering dish that combines the classic flavors of bacon - wrapped chicken tenders with a tropical twist. A soy, ginger, and pineapple marinade and dipping sauce will transport your taste buds straight to the tropical islands.
Let's start with the ingredients. For the chicken tenders, you'll need about 1 pound of fresh chicken tenders. Make sure they are clean and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the bacon stick better and ensures even cooking. You'll also need 8 - 10 strips of bacon. Choose thick - cut bacon for that extra crunch and flavor.
Now, let's move on to the star of the show - the marinade and dipping sauce. You'll need 1/2 cup of soy sauce. Soy sauce adds a rich, savory umami flavor to the chicken. Next, take 2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger. Ginger brings a warm, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple. And of course, 1 cup of pineapple juice. Pineapple not only adds a sweet and tangy flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken.
To make the marinade, simply combine the soy sauce, grated ginger, and pineapple juice in a large bowl. Whisk them together until well - blended. Place the chicken tenders in the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it will become.
While the chicken is marinating, it's time to prepare the grill. Preheat your grill to medium - high heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly spread and glowing red. If you're using a gas grill, turn it on and let it heat up for about 10 - 15 minutes.
Once the chicken has marinated, it's time to wrap the tenders with bacon. Take a strip of bacon and wrap it around each chicken tender, securing it with a toothpick. This not only adds a delicious layer of flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling.
Place the bacon - wrapped chicken tenders on the preheated grill. Close the lid and let them cook for about 4 - 5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. The bacon should start to crisp up, and the chicken should be cooked through. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
While the chicken is grilling, you can make the dipping sauce. Take the remaining marinade and pour it into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium - high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 - 7 minutes. This helps to thicken the sauce and kill any bacteria from the raw chicken. Stir it occasionally to prevent it from burning.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and juicy. Serve the bacon - wrapped chicken tenders with the warm dipping sauce on the side.
This tropical - inspired bacon - wrapped chicken tender recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a family dinner. It combines the best of both worlds - the classic flavors of bacon and chicken with the sweet and tangy notes of pineapple and ginger. So, fire up the grill and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
You can also get creative with this recipe. You can add some red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra spicy kick. Or, you can top the chicken tenders with some fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. The possibilities are endless.
Whether you're a seasoned griller or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to be a hit. So, gather your friends and family, and enjoy a delicious meal that takes you on a trip to the tropical islands without leaving your backyard.
